Koror, Palau—On June 14, 2024, eighteen chiefs of Peleliu state passed a resolution expressing strong support for U.S. military activities in their state.
During the 4th Peleliu State Traditional Leaders Conference, Resolution No. 22-04 was adopted. It urges Governor Emais Roberts to call for a constitutional referendum to amend Article XI, Section 6 of the Peleliu Constitution.
As it stands, this section of the Peleliu Constitution currently prohibits the establishment of permanent military facilities within the state and requires a supermajority vote (75%) of Peleliu residents to approve military training exercises.
The resolution, representing the five hamlets of Peleliu, urgently calls for an expedited referendum to allow public approval for U.S. military programs and activities.
In recent months, the U.S. Military and the Palauan government have held meetings with Peleliu residents regarding the potential use of certain properties for U.S. military purposes. A U.S. Embassy official has denied speculation that the United States seeks to establish a permanent military base in Palau.